2017 NHL Draft First Rounders: Cale Makar

Emily Duncan / Em Rose Photography

It’s hard to ignore his success in the AJHL. Makar fills a need for the Colorado Avalanche and becomes second highest pick ever for a Junior A player at #4 – right after BCHL alum Kyle Turris who was drafted third overall by the Arizona Coyotes (then Phoenix Coyotes) at the 2007 draft.

Cale Makar has really started to turn heads with his offensive capability. Likes to skate the puck deep into the offensive zone and create offence. Possesses a real heavy, hard wrist and likes to shoot often from between the circles. Phenomenal skater who can get up and down ice closing sizeable gaps to get back into position after pinching in. Follows up his passes ensuring he hits outlet passes right on the tape. Great ice coverage and constantly moving around the ice looking to make a play. Has good offensive instincts but knows his defensive responsibilities come first. Has landed into the talk of a potential first round draft pick after his performance at the World Jr. A Challenge this past December as he captained Canada West scoring eight points (four goals) in four games.

DID YOU KNOW? Makar accumulated a long list of accolades and awards during his 2015-16 AJHL championship season with the Brooks Bandits including AJHL Rookie of the Year, AJHL All-Rookie Team, AJHL All-Star Team, RBC Cup Top Scorer and RBC Cup Top defenceman, among many others. Expected to attend UMASS-Amherst in the Fall, while the Medicine Hat Tigers hold his WHL rights.

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